Deep Mapping of Small Solar System Bodies with Galactic Cosmic Ray Secondary Particle Showers
Project Introduction
We will investigate the use of galactic cosmic ray (GCR) secondary particles to probe the deep interiors of small solar system bodies (SSBs), including comets, asteroids, and geologic structures on the surfaces of airless bodies.
We propose to develop new types of spacecraft instrumentation, data analysis, and imaging methods that make use of galactic cosmic ray (GCR) secondary particle shower products, such as pions and muons.
More »Anticipated Benefits
There are presently no established methods to directly characterize the interior structure and macroporosity of an asteroid or comet. Muography could provide a direct and cost-effective means of probing the interior density structure. Such information is important for planetary science, in situ resource utilization, mining, and planetary defense.
More »Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Johnson Space Center
(JSC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Houston, TX |
| Johns Hopkins University | Supporting Organization | Academic | Baltimore, MD |
| Planetary Science Institute (PSI) | Supporting Organization | Industry | |
| Universities Space Research Association (USRA) | Supporting Organization | Academic | |
| University of Alabama at Huntsville | Supporting Organization | Academic | Huntsville, AL |
| University of Houston | Supporting Organization | Industry |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Alabama
-
Arizona
-
Maryland
-
Texas
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Johnson Space Center (JSC)
Responsible Program:
- NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
Project Management
Program Director:
Principal Investigator:
- Thomas Prettyman
Co-Investigators:
- Steven Koontz
- Mark V Sykes
- Richard Miller
- Lawrence S Pinsky
- Michael Nolan
Project Duration
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 2 |
| Estimated End: | 3 |
Technology Areas
